DGDancan Githirwa
@dancangithirwa
Ph.D. candidate in Chemistry with expertise in drug delivery systems.
United StatesWhat I'm looking for
I am a dedicated Ph.D. candidate in Chemistry at Binghamton University, where I have developed innovative pH-Low Insertion Peptide (pHLIP) variants to enhance targeted chemotherapy delivery. My research focuses on understanding drug delivery mechanisms through advanced biophysical studies and logistic modeling, leading to significant advancements in therapeutic outcomes.
Throughout my academic journey, I have gained extensive experience in organic chemical reactions, method development, and lab management. I have also contributed to the academic community as a teaching assistant, promoting student engagement in Organic Chemistry. My commitment to research and education drives my desire to further explore synthesis, bioconjugation chemistry, and the characterization of peptide drug conjugates.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Organic Chemistry Teaching Assistant
Binghamton University
Sep 2018 - Nov 2024 (6 years 2 months)
Assisted in teaching Organic Chemistry by reinforcing lesson concepts through various methods. Organized office hours for student support and graded lab reports, promoting engagement in the subject.
Graduate Research Assistant
Binghamton University
Sep 2018 - Nov 2024 (6 years 2 months)
Conducted research on pH-Low Insertion Peptide variants to enhance chemotherapy delivery. Developed methods for analyzing peptide interactions with membranes and trained undergraduate students in lab protocols. Improved drug delivery selectivity and contributed to manuscripts on lipid-protein interactions.
Quality Control Intern
Kenya Pipeline Company
Jan 2017 - May 2017 (4 months)
Performed quality control tests on oil products, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. Conducted blending trials and maintained laboratory housekeeping and safety procedures.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
BUBinghamton University
Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemistry
2018 - 2024
Developed and characterized novel pH-Low Insertion Peptide (pHLIP) peptide variants to enhance the efficiency of targeted chemotherapy delivery, focusing on pH-dependent membrane insertion and cargo release. Conjugated Doxorubicin (Dox) to pHLIP variants and employed fluorescence spectroscopy to map insertion profiles across varying pH conditions.
University of Nairobi
Bachelor of Science, Industrial Chemistry
2013 - 2017
Activities and societies: Wandinga-Hull Scholarship Recipient
Graduated Summa Cum Laude. Awarded PhD scholarship to SUNY Binghamton University having emerged top of my undergraduate class.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
United StatesAuthorized to work in
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